Richard Mille Le Mans Classic 2012

In honor of their continued partnership with the Biennial Le Mans Classic Race, Richard Mille announces two special editions – the Richard Mille RM 008 LMC Tourbillion Chronograph and the RM 011 LMC Automatic Chronograph.

Of course, given a choice you’d choose the tourbillion model and it is superb – micro blasted titanium case, DLC coated case band and a profusion of dial information – hours, minutes, seconds, split-seconds chronograph, power reserve and torque.  The addition of blue/yellow to represent the colours of Le Circuit de la Sarthe adds readability and contrast and, for me, the contrast of playful tones with something which is so highly technical makes the piece even more appealing.  It matters not, alas only two of these RM 008 LMC models will be made.

Better then to fall for the more accessible, but no less technical RM 011 Automatic Chronograph LMC with skeletonised movement providing the 3-Dimensional aspect which is unmistakenly “Mille”.  Again, a wealth of functions including flyback chronograph, annual calendar and a rather fetching 24-hour counter at 6.  And once more the combination of blue and yellow with a titanium monocoque, sorry watchcase – Richard Mille watches are so intrinsically connected with the world of automotive racing that it is hard not to make comparisons – construction materials are often similar, the research and development of size/weight ratio at Richard Mille is equal only to that of F1 design and both produce end-products which would be considered “Concepts” such is the technical advancements involved.  The RM011 LMC will be limited to 150 pieces.